Michigan bill allows charities to fundraise on street

Posted on July 23, 2013

A bill introduced in Lansing would let Michigan charities raise money while volunteers stand or walk in the street.

State Rep. Terry Brown says he proposed the legislation last week after learning of a dispute in the Thumb area. He says the Sebewaing Village Council didn’t allow the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars to conduct their annual poppy sale because a state transportation official said it’s a violation of the law.

Brown’s bill would let municipal governments pass a resolution to permit charitable fundraising on roads within their jurisdiction.

The Pigeon Democrat says selling flower or candy is a big part of some charities’ fundraising activities, and the state shouldn’t get in their way.

The legislation was sent to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.